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Meghli
(Moghli, Karawiyah)
The traditional Levantine rice pudding called meghli is a vegan, gluten, and dairy-free dish that is traditionally consumed to celebrate the birth of a baby. It is also said that the brown color of the spiced pudding is symbolic for the richness of soil, while the rough texture of the nuts on top represents growing seeds.
In addition to those symbolic meanings, the caraway in the pudding is thought to assist new mothers with lactation and bloat reduction. Meghli is made with rice flour, caraway, water, sugar, spices, a variety of nuts and spices, and is then cooked over low heat until the mixture can hold itself when tilted.
It can be enjoyed both warm or cold.
WHERE TO EAT The best Meghli in the world (according to food experts)
1
Recommended by Seth Sherwood and 2 other food critics.
"Rice pudding, often a lackluster bowl of white slop, was firm here, substantial and infused with accents of rose water and orange-flower water. The combination lent an exotic Middle Eastern blossomy flavor."
2
Recommended by Julie Bindel and 1 other food critic.
"For dessert I had meghli (rice pudding with anise, caraway and cinnamon), which was memorable."
3
Recommended by The World's 50 Best Restaurants and 3 other food critics.
"Standout dishes include 'meghlia' (a spiced rice pudding dessert)."
4
Recommended by Fodor's Travel and 1 other food critic.
"Go for the $17 lunch special, stay for the meghli rice flour pudding bedecked in cloves, coconut, and cinnamon."
